News for 'Central and State'

Maha rains: 13 dead in 4 days; rain to continue till July 8

Maha rains: 13 dead in 4 days; rain to continue till July 8

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has warned of a possible cloudburst-like spell in Nashik on Tuesday and stated that the state machinery is on high alert, with heavy rains expected to continue until July 8. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary travel as authorities manage landslides, swollen rivers, and rescue operations.

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Avengers: Doomsday teaser trailer has dropped, revealing an ambitious, potentially overcrowded multiverse saga featuring Doctor Doom, returning heroes, and universe-colliding stakes that could define the future of the MCU.

US-Iran next round of talks in Switzerland on June 28 and 29: Report

US-Iran next round of talks in Switzerland on June 28 and 29: Report

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

As Tehran and Washington continue with their engagements following the signing of the MoU earlier this month, sources have told Al Arabiya that the two are set to hold the next round of negotiations in Switzerland on June 28 and 29.

Portion of Ganga Expressway link road washed away in first monsoon rain

Portion of Ganga Expressway link road washed away in first monsoon rain

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

A portion of a link road connecting the Kanpur-Lucknow National Highway with the Ganga Expressway in Unnao district caved in after the first monsoon rain, raising concerns about construction quality and prompting repair work.

CBI Cracks Down on Builder-Financial Institution Nexus with Multi-State Raids

CBI Cracks Down on Builder-Financial Institution Nexus with Multi-State Raids

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The CBI conducted searches at 77 locations across eight states, registering 22 new cases related to a nexus between builders and financial institutions, allegedly defrauding homebuyers.

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

At least 32 people have been killed and over 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck western Venezuela, with Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declaring La Guaira a disaster zone and warning the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.

Mamata dares 'treacherous' rebels to join BJP as another close aide quits

Mamata dares 'treacherous' rebels to join BJP as another close aide quits

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress supremo, has launched a strong counterattack against rebel party members, accusing them of conspiring with the BJP to split the party. She dared them to formally join the BJP and defended her leadership amidst the worst organisational crisis for TMC, while also announcing leadership changes and criticising the rebels' past actions and attempts to seize party assets.

Tension escalates as Iran's IRGC claims it hit 8 US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain

Tension escalates as Iran's IRGC claims it hit 8 US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Sunday claimed it had destroyed eight US military infrastructures in Kuwait and Bahrain in a joint missile and drone operation, describing the strikes as retaliation for a second wave of US military attacks on Iranian targets.

Heavy showers flood parts of Mumbai; road, rail traffic hit

Heavy showers flood parts of Mumbai; road, rail traffic hit

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Heavy rainfall has caused severe waterlogging across Mumbai, disrupting traffic and daily life. The India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for Mumbai and surrounding districts, advising precautions. Specific areas recorded over 200 mm of rainfall, and the IMD forecasts continued heavy rains for the Konkan region, Goa, South Gujarat, Odisha, and Central India.

'You'd be speaking French': King Charles roasts Trump at state dinner

'You'd be speaking French': King Charles roasts Trump at state dinner

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

King Charles III reaffirmed the enduring strength of the US-UK alliance, underscored NATO's centrality to global security, and shared light-hearted moments with President Donald Trump during a White House state dinner.

CMFRI Scientists Identify New Deep-Sea Fish, Cyttopsis Indica

CMFRI Scientists Identify New Deep-Sea Fish, Cyttopsis Indica

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Scientists at the ICAR-CMFRI have identified a new species of deep-sea fish, named Cyttopsis indica (Indian dory), in the Arabian Sea off the Kerala coast. This discovery, based on specimens collected from the eastern Lakshadweep Sea, corrects a long-standing taxonomic misidentification and highlights the rich marine biodiversity of India's southwest coast.

How India's Mobile Algal Tree Fights Urban Pollution

How India's Mobile Algal Tree Fights Urban Pollution

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Researchers at CSIR-CIMFR have developed India's first mobile Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT), an innovative air-purification system using microalgae to absorb CO2 and release oxygen. Designed for polluted urban areas, this compact unit offers a sustainable solution where conventional tree planting is challenging, also providing public utility features.

ED raids 5 Kolkata locations in TMC plane, helicopter funding probe

ED raids 5 Kolkata locations in TMC plane, helicopter funding probe

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches in Kolkata as part of an investigation into alleged fund routing from TMC's bank accounts for purchasing an Embraer jet and an AgustaWestland helicopter. The probe suggests Rs 160 crore was transferred to Carewell Aviation, with Rs 112 crore used for aircraft. The ED suspects the arrangement was designed to camouflage the true purpose of transactions. This comes amidst frozen TMC bank accounts and ongoing internal party disputes.

Ceasefire crumbles? US bombs Iran after Hormuz attack, Tehran retaliates

Ceasefire crumbles? US bombs Iran after Hormuz attack, Tehran retaliates

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The US forces conducted strikes against Iran, on Friday, as a powerful response to Thursday's attack on a commercial ship that was transiting the Strait of Hormuz, said Central Command (CENTCOM) in a statement.

Narang, Kunjarani Join Panel For National Sports Board

Narang, Kunjarani Join Panel For National Sports Board

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Olympic medallist Gagan Narang and weightlifting great N Kunjarani Devi have been appointed to a five-member search-cum-selection committee for the National Sports Board. Chaired by Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan, the committee will recommend names for the Board's Chairperson and Members. The National Sports Board is tasked with recognising National Sports Bodies and ensuring compliance with governance, financial, and ethical standards under the new National Sports Governance Act.

Human-Led AI Crucial For India's Developed Nation Vision By 2047

Human-Led AI Crucial For India's Developed Nation Vision By 2047

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that human-led artificial intelligence will be the defining force in India's journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047. Speaking at the 29th National Conference on e-Governance, he emphasised that technology must strengthen governance without replacing human accountability, advocating for responsible AI deployment with citizens at the centre. The conference concluded with the adoption of the Jaipur Declaration on e-Governance 2026, outlining a roadmap for AI-enabled, data-driven, and secure digital governance.

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

N Kalaiselvi, the first woman Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has received an extension to her tenure until February 2027. Known for her pioneering work in lithium-ion batteries, Kalaiselvi's extended leadership marks a significant milestone for women in Indian science.

Did Israel's Mossad Try To Lure Ex-Iranian President?

Did Israel's Mossad Try To Lure Ex-Iranian President?

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A sensational New York Times report alleging that Israel's Mossad secretly groomed former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to lead a post-Islamic Republic Iran is being scrutinised for its strategic timing amidst Iran's sensitive post-Khamenei transition.

HC seeks Centre's stand on Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction

HC seeks Centre's stand on Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought the Centre's response regarding pleas from Delhi Gymkhana Club members and staff challenging a show-cause notice for eviction. The court has asked the Solicitor General to ensure the Estate Officer's hearing is adjourned until after the next court date, indicating judicial oversight in the ongoing dispute over the club's 27.3-acre premises.

GST Collections Hit Rs 1.95 Lakh Crore in June, Driven by Import Growth

GST Collections Hit Rs 1.95 Lakh Crore in June, Driven by Import Growth

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections saw a significant 14 per cent increase in June, reaching approximately Rs 1.95 lakh crore. This surge was primarily driven by a substantial 34.6 per cent growth in tax mop-up from imports, alongside a 6.5 per cent rise in domestic supplies, reflecting the country's economic resilience despite global uncertainties.

Mumbai's first desalination plant on course, to add 200 MLD a day

Mumbai's first desalination plant on course, to add 200 MLD a day

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra government has confirmed that Mumbai's first desalination project is moving forward, with a work order issued and key clearances secured. This 200 MLD project, undertaken by the BMC, aims to address the city's growing water demand and will result in a minor tariff hike of 15-17 paise per litre.

Uddhav demands disqualification of rebel MPs, alleges 'bigger conspiracy'

Uddhav demands disqualification of rebel MPs, alleges 'bigger conspiracy'

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has demanded the immediate disqualification of six party MPs who defected to the Eknath Shinde-led camp, alleging a larger political conspiracy. He accused the BJP of exploiting the Ram Mandir issue and systematically sidelining its own state leaders, while also questioning the rebel MPs' motives and wealth.

Q1 PSU Stake Sales Beat FY26 Divestment Total

Q1 PSU Stake Sales Beat FY26 Divestment Total

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Divestment has emerged as a priority for the government following a moderation in direct tax collections.

India, US are natural partners against China: Indra Nooyi

India, US are natural partners against China: Indra Nooyi

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi asserts that India and the United States are natural partners, crucial in the geopolitical competition with China. She highlights India's pivotal role as the world's largest democracy with a young, English-speaking population, despite its "chaotic" nature. Nooyi also discusses the need for leaders to understand each other's perspectives to maintain strong bilateral ties.

Body of Indian seafarer killed in US attack reaches home, family seeks compensation

Body of Indian seafarer killed in US attack reaches home, family seeks compensation

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The body of Shivanand Chaurasia, an Indian seafarer killed in a US military attack on a commercial vessel near the Oman coast, has reached his native village in Deoria. His family is demanding significant ex gratia compensation, a government job, and martyr status, refusing to perform last rites until their demands are addressed.

Rajasthan to get Yamuna waters from Haryana during monsoon

Rajasthan to get Yamuna waters from Haryana during monsoon

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Haryana and Rajasthan have signed an agreement to implement the 1994 Upper Yamuna River Board (UYRB) agreement, allowing Rajasthan to receive water from the Hathini Kund barrage during monsoons. The pact, signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, resolves a 32-year-old issue concerning water allocation among Yamuna basin states.

'Don't Know When Satluj Will Release Again'

'Don't Know When Satluj Will Release Again'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Leading star Diljit Dosanjh anticipated a potential ban during a live stream, urging fans to watch or download it quickly. Following its removal, he posted a resilient response, stating, 'I challenge the darkness'.

Hyderabad sees high-voltage drama as Cong ministers, BRS leaders lock horns

Hyderabad sees high-voltage drama as Cong ministers, BRS leaders lock horns

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

A high drama unfolded in Hyderabad on Thursday as ministers of the Congress government arrived at the Telangana Martyrs' Memorial to engage in a public debate with the opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi leaders over allegations of scams and debt accumulation that both the ruling and opposition parties have raised against each other.

Modi: Bengal Election A Battle To Save State's Identity

Modi: Bengal Election A Battle To Save State's Identity

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the Mamata Banerjee government of favouring infiltrators over the native population, asserting that the upcoming assembly election in West Bengal is a battle to save the state's identity.

ICICI Bank plans $500 million dollar bond issue, first in a decade

ICICI Bank plans $500 million dollar bond issue, first in a decade

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

ICICI Bank, India's second-largest private-sector lender, is set to raise approximately $500 million through an overseas dollar bond issuance, marking its first such move in nearly a decade. This fundraising effort will utilise the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) concessional swap window, a facility designed to reduce hedging costs for foreign currency borrowings.

Market participants expect RBI to provide weekly updates on FCNR (B) inflows

Market participants expect RBI to provide weekly updates on FCNR (B) inflows

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Market participants are keenly awaiting regular, preferably weekly, updates from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank), or FCNR (B), deposits, following the central bank's directive for banks to submit daily data on these inflows.

NEET-PG 2026: What Happened To The Zero Percentile Policy?

NEET-PG 2026: What Happened To The Zero Percentile Policy?

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

One of the most important provisions this year is that qualifying NEET-PG does not automatically guarantee participation in counselling.

US launches new strikes on Iran after Trump vows to hit 'hard'

US launches new strikes on Iran after Trump vows to hit 'hard'

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched self-defence strikes against multiple targets in Iran, citing ongoing Iranian aggression. This action has led to Iran's Red Crescent placing emergency centres on high alert amidst reports of explosions in several Iranian cities. Concurrently, Iraqi media claims Iran retaliated with a missile strike on a US air base in Erbil.

Why Is RBI Buying Billions Of Dollars?

Why Is RBI Buying Billions Of Dollars?

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The rupee has been among the The RBI uses the Iran-US peace deal to bolster its forex reserves.

Nimbalkar murder case: 8, including Maha dy CM's brother, acquitted

Nimbalkar murder case: 8, including Maha dy CM's brother, acquitted

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A special CBI court in Mumbai acquitted former Maharashtra home minister Padamsinh Patil and seven others in the 2006 murder case of Congress leader Pawanraje Nimbalkar and his driver, citing the prosecution's failure to prove the conspiracy and finding the approver's testimony doubtful. The CBI has announced its intention to appeal the verdict in the Bombay High Court.

Vijay govt appoints film producer as Delhi representative

Vijay govt appoints film producer as Delhi representative

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The Tamil Nadu government has appointed film producer K Venkata Narayana as the state's special representative to the government in New Delhi, evoking sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party and other opposition parties on Friday.

Iran shuts Strait of Hormuz again over ceasefire violations

Iran shuts Strait of Hormuz again over ceasefire violations

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing Israel's continued strikes in Lebanon and alleged violations of a ceasefire agreement. This move comes as both Israel and Hezbollah accuse each other of breaching the truce, with casualties rising in southern Lebanon.

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

'If there are different laws governing the same subject, it can increase the compliance burden on platforms. The process would be easier and more transparent if there were a singular national-level law.'

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

US and Iran officials have reportedly agreed to de-escalate tensions and ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with technical talks scheduled to continue. This development follows months of conflict, rising gas prices, and strained diplomatic relations, marked by recent retaliatory strikes and threats from both sides. Further discussions on Iran's nuclear program are set to take place in Qatar, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts despite recent volatility.

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Odisha government has officially changed the English spellings of 64 places, including major cities like Cuttack (now Kataka) and Balasore (now Baleshwar), to align with Odia phonetics. This move aims to preserve the state's linguistic and cultural identity by correcting colonial-era anglicised names and standardising official records.